Abiodun has given his approval for the release of the 2021/2022 promotion exercise, just as he also authorized payment of leave bonuses for March and April, this year for workers in the state public service.
The governor took the steps to acknowledge the professionalism of the employees and to improve their performance, according to an announcement he made at the 2023 Public Service Day Celebration, held at the Obas Complex at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele, noted the significance of civil servants as partners in progress and emphasized the importance of their well-being and welfare.
He expressed his appreciation for the harmonious working relationship between the government and the entire workforce in the state, while acknowledging the importance of this relationship and pointed out that his administration did not take it for granted.
The governor also stated that together, they would ensure the state’s esteemed position in Nigeria as a whole.
He urged public servants to be dedicated and committed to their duties, emphasizing that the public service was an avenue where integrity and a good legacy could be earned through efficient service delivery.
Mr. Demola Badejo, Vice-Chairman of the Association of Retired Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries, highlighted the leading role of the Ogun State civil service and emphasized the need for public servants to adhere to the principles and regulations that guide its operations. He stressed the civil service’s role as the engine room of the government.
Chief Tajudeen Aremu, the guest lecturer and former Oyo State Head of Service, who spoke about the theme of the event: “Building trust through service delivery: the pivotal role of the public service”, encouraged public servants to prioritize building trust with their superiors and the public.
He emphasized the importance of ethics, accountability, and service delivery in establishing this trust.
Aremu highlighted civil service ethics such as anonymity, impartiality/neutrality, objectivity, and confidentiality, which, if followed, would earn public servants prestige and respect and also advised public servants to dress modestly, adhere to public service rules, and handle all matters promptly.
The guest lecturer outlined practical steps to build trust through service delivery, including studying government policy papers, providing regular briefings to the Head of Service by government agencies, and striving for indispensability through quality service.
He also emphasized the importance of instilling service and integrity in subordinate officers, accuracy in handling figures and data, and maintaining the integrity of the civil service and personal integrity.
Comrade Hakeem Lasisi, the Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), expressed gratitude to God for allowing civil servants to participate in this year’s celebration. He expressed optimism that the governor would address the challenges faced by public servants due to the fuel subsidy pronouncement.
In his welcome address, Mr. Kola Peter Fagbohun, the Ogun State Head of Service, explained that the annual public service day celebration aims to recognize the values and virtues of public service to society.
He stated that this year’s theme was carefully chosen to help public servants better understand their significance in delivering continued service to the government and the public.
Fagbohun expressed appreciation to the governor for his support and approval of this year’s celebration and congratulated him on his second term in office.